Analysis Of Roosevelt Inaugural Address

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Due to the death of President McKinley Roosevelt had been President himself for three years at the election of 1904. During his presidency it was evident that Theodore Roosevelt was pro-imperialism. The purpose of his inaugural address was to identify the idea of imperialism through the idea of democracy. Through affirmative word choice he showed imperialism as being an aid rather than a way of conquering another nation. “Much has been given us, and much will rightfully be expected from us.” From this statement Roosevelt reminds America of how thankful they should be for the fact that they live in a democratic country because freedom is given to them; and because they have what others don’t it’s understandable that other countries would want their assistance. He describes such offered relations with foreign countries as being “generous,” “justified,” and “righteous.” He states “attitudes must be one of cordial and sincere friendship.” With use of optimistic adjectives Roosevelt’s affirms his belief in positive imperialism. His main goal in imposing on another nation would only be to facilitate it and his word choice helps his audience understand his point of view. He knows that the United States are a great nation and should maintain the greatness in front of other nations; that they should respect all the nations by doing good actions toward them, secure other nations’ safety, and refrain them from wrongdoing others. Throughout the entire address Roosevelt stands behind his idea that “We must show not only in our words, but in our deeds, that we are earnestly desirous of securing their [other nations] good will by acting toward them in a spirit of just and generous recognition of all their rights.” His address foreshadowed his involvement with other nations, such as his future foreign diplomacy and provided an example of positive

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